Whether it’s the outrageous price of groceries in Canada or the lack of time you have to prepare meals, preparing healthy and affordable meals can be a major struggle for university and college students. But, food is fuel and I want to share some healthy, affordable, and easy to prepare meals that helped me get through those long days of class and grueling study sessions.  

Morning Boost: Easy Overnight Oats Recipe 

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup rolled oats 
• 3/4 cup almond milk 
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds 
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup 
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• Banana slices and peanut butter (for topping) 

Steps: 

• In a jar, combine oats, almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. 
• Seal and refrigerate overnight. 
• Top with banana slices and a dollop of peanut butter before serving. 

Lunch Favorite: Chickpea Salad Sandwich Recipe 

Ingredients: 

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped 
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• Whole grain bread and lettuce 

Steps: 

• Mash chickpeas in a bowl. 
• Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, onion, and celery. Season with salt and pepper. 
• Serve on whole grain bread with lettuce. 

Quick Dinner: Simple Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe 

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots) 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic 
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger 
• Cooked rice or noodles 

Steps: 

• Heat olive oil in a pan. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute. 
• Add vegetables; stir-fry until tender-crisp. 
• Add soy sauce; stir well. Serve over rice or noodles. 

Snack or Light Meal: Easy Pita Pizzas Recipe 

Ingredients: 

• Whole wheat pita breads 
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce 
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 
• Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives 

Steps: 

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 
• Spread pizza sauce on pitas; top with cheese and veggies. 
• Bake for 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly. 

Protein-Rich Dinner: Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast 
• 1 ripe avocado, diced 
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 
• 1/4 cup diced red onion 
• 1/4 cup diced celery 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• Whole grain bread or salad greens 

Steps: 

• Mix chicken and avocado in a bowl. 
• Add Greek yogurt and lemon juice; mix gently. 
• Stir in onion and celery. Season with salt and pepper. 
• Serve on whole grain bread or over greens. 

Why This Guide Works 

These recipes are crafted with students in mind, ensuring that each meal is: 

• Quick to Prepare: Get more time to study with recipes ready in minutes. 
• Nutritious: Fuel your brain and body with balanced ingredients. 
• Cost-Effective: Save money without sacrificing taste or health. 

Embrace these recipes to navigate your student life with energy and ease. Here’s to healthy eating and successful studying!